What is a gravitational slingshot?
Q: What is a gravitational slingshot?
A: A gravitational slingshot is a technique used by spacecraft to alter their path and speed.
Q: How does gravity assist work?
A: Gravity assist works by using the movement and gravity of a planet to pull on the spacecraft, altering its path and speed.
Q: What are the benefits of using gravity assist?
A: The benefits of using gravity assist include saving fuel, time, and expense for the spacecraft.
Q: Can gravity assist be used to speed up a spacecraft?
A: Yes, gravity assist can be used to speed up a spacecraft.
Q: Can gravity assist be used to slow down a spacecraft?
A: Yes, gravity assist can be used to slow down a spacecraft.
Q: Who first used gravity assist?
A: The Soviet Union used gravity assist first for the Luna 3 probe to photograph the far side of the Moon.
Q: Was the Pioneer program successful in using gravity assist?
A: Yes, the Pioneer program was successful in using gravity assist in several of its missions.
